David Mertz Signs to Play Baseball at Guilford Tech

On May 12, 2025, NRCA senior David Mertz signed to play baseball at Guilford Technical Community College. “I chose the school because it provided me the best opportunity to follow what I felt was God’s plan for my life,” he said.  

Mertz said his passion for baseball started early and never stopped. “I have always loved baseball since I was a child. My dad would hit batting practice with me in the yard, and my love for the game just grew from there.” 

While baseball has been a lifelong passion, Mertz says his time at NRCA shaped more than just his athletic ability—it deepened his faith. “I think NRCA really helped me grow spiritually more than anything. Having teachers willing to talk and help me figure out what I believe is one of the best things NRCA ever did for me. And I think knowing what I believe helps me approach college baseball and be a light to my new teammates,” Mertz said. 

His growth spiritually was matched by a relentless pursuit of athletic excellence beyond school grounds. “Outside of NRCA I have spent years working on my skills, playing travel baseball and spending hours at private baseball facilities to get to the point I am at,” he said. 

At NRCA, he made the most of his time on and off the field. Mertz played football and baseball and enjoyed the comradery that forms as players enjoy the simple things together. He said, “My favorite memories from baseball and football have to be bus rides home from games because they just make the best memories.” 

Mertz plans to play baseball at Guilford Tech for two years and then transfer to play at a four-year university. He intends to study construction management with the goal of going into general contracting.  

As he prepares for the next chapter, Mertz remains thankful for the support that helped him get there. “First, I want to thank God for giving me this opportunity and then my parents and family for all the time they spent helping me reach my goals. I also want to thank my coaches and teammates for the work they put into making me a better player and person,” he said. “Lastly, I want to thank my doctors and physical therapists for helping me come back better than ever after my surgery.”